This week on our social platforms, we shared pictures of our Kent Public Works team and some tidbits about how they bring the city to life every single day.
These essential employees dedicate themselves to making all of our lives better by providing vital services we rely on.
They work hard to improve the quality of life for all residents in our community, and we are so grateful for their work.
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We had an incredible Thursday morning at the Kent Valley Air & Space Manufacturing Roundtable at the Museum of Flight! It was an honor to welcome leaders, elected leaders and innovators from across the region who are shaping the future of aerospace right here in our own backyard.
The Kent Valley continues to be a hub of groundbreaking technology, strategic partnerships, and world-class talent. We are so grateful to be part of a community that’s driving innovation, creating family-wage jobs, and preparing the next generation for success in this vital industry.
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Earlier this week, I had the honor of speaking to the Puget Sound Regional Council’s General Assembly as Chair of the Transportation Policy Board about the Regional Safety Action Plan, a bold and coordinated effort to make our roads safer for everyone who uses them.
This plan represents our commitment to eliminating traffic-related deaths and serious injuries throughout the Puget Sound region. Whether you're walking, biking, rolling, or driving, you deserve to feel safe on our streets.
The General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to adopt the plan today. This is a significant step toward building safer communities, not just in Kent, but across our entire region.
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Last weekend, I stopped into the Puget Sound Fire Teddy Bear Clinic.
Kids brought their stuffed bears, ducks, bunnies, and dogs for a check-up. They also brought home a new Firefighter Bear. Maple Valley Mayor Sean P. Kelly, along with Council members Troutner, Boyd and Fincher, also stopped by.
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Saturday afternoon, I was honored to participate in Khalsa Day festivities at accesso ShoWare Center. This is a day of celebration, remembrance, and a reaffirmation of Sikh identity and faith.
Pictured: Renton Councilmember James Alberson Jr., Councilmember Toni Troutner, Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, Auburn Councilmember Hanan Amer, Council President Satwinder Kaur, Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone, Representative Chris Stearns, Representative Janice Zahn, Representative Mia Gregerson and Representative Edwin Obras.
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Saturday was the 4th annual Bicycle Rodeo put on by our Kent Bicycle Advisory Board, and it was a huge success!
There was a helmet giveaway, a station to get bicycles safety checked and a fun riding course.
Thank you to our city transportation team, police community education and our officers for joining in the fun.
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I couldn’t be more excited to see the new and improved Kiwanis Tot Lot 4 officially open!
This downtown park has always been a special spot, and thanks to our incredible Kent Parks team, it’s been completely reimagined into a space that’s fun, welcoming, and built for all ages to enjoy.
From the fresh landscaping to the awesome new Cliff Rider, every detail was designed with our community in mind.
Next time you’re in the area, swing by, take a walk, and let the kids explore.
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This season, a total of 1,055 participants in Grades 4 and 5 from 26 schools joined in on the 60th Junior Olympics! This Kent Parks program is run in partnership with the Kent School District and is one of our longest-running programs.
Qualifying participants from each school completed the softball throw, running long jump, 75-yard dash, 4 x 75-yard relay, and 600-yard dash events at Kent-Meridian’s French Field, with teammates, friends, and families in the stands cheering them on. Council President Kaur and Councilmember Michaud were also in attendance to help pass out awards!
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I am so excited to welcome Riverbend Bar & Grill to Kent.
After opening their doors for a soft opening May 10, the full menu is now being offered! I had the chance to stop by for dinner last weekend and had a fantastic experience, excellent service and delicious food.
Be sure to come by and check them out! The Riverbend Bar & Grill is located at the 18-hole course at the Riverbend Golf Complex. Stay tuned for details on their Grand Opening event!
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City offices will be closed this Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day.
This includes Kent City Hall, the Centennial Center, the Municipal Court, the Kent Commons and the Kent Senior Activity Center.
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Here's the recap on what the Kent City Council has been working on!
You can also see the full meeting agendas, minutes and livestream recordings on our website.
At Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, I presented Maxima Patashnik, Director of JCRC and Government Affairs, the proclamation for Jewish American Heritage Month.
We honor the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans who have endured and helped shape our nation.
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At Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, I presented Public Works Deputy Director Kelly Peterson, the proclamation for Public Works Week in the City of Kent!
We recognize that the men and women in Kent who provide and maintain public works infrastructure, facilities and services are of vital importance to sustainable communities and to the health, safety and well-being everyone who lives here.
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ReCode Kent is an initiative to update city zoning code to improve the supply, types, affordability and quality of housing while streamlining permitting.
We're updating our development requirements in the Kent City Code and design standards to align with state mandates and implement the goals of the Kent Comprehensive Plan.
Learn more online at Engage.KentWA.gov/ReCodeHousing.
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It's Bike Everywhere Month! This month, you'll find exciting events all over the region, including our Bike Ride of the Month, all to encourage everyone to hop on their bikes and explore. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or taking a leisurely ride, every pedal stroke counts.
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King County has been selected as one of five regions in the U.S. for Comcast RISE Grants. This means 100 small businesses in King County will receive over $3 million in grants for monetary, marketing, and technology support. Applications are open from May 1-31 at ComcastRISE.com, with winners announced in August.
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We are kicking off Paw-Fest weekend, where Kent City Hall becomes Kent Kitty Hall!
It's where all the cuddliest, cutest adoptable kittens and cats will be available for adoption thanks to Regional Animal Services of King County.
This is a purr-fect time, to find your furever friend! No kitten around!
📅 Thursday, June 5
⌚ 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
📍 Kent City Hall
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Join us and Regional Animal Services of King County at PawFest! Animal rescues will have sweet animals up for adoption and we'll have licensing help on-site.
There will be a pet parade, best pet costume contest, pup cups, demonstrations from dog agility teams and dog trainers.
📅 Saturday, June 7
⌚10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
📍 accesso ShoWare Center
Construction has officially started on Ezee Fiber’s high-speed fiber network here in Kent!
As work continues in neighborhoods across the city, Ezee Fiber has launched an online hub to help residents stay informed. You’ll find answers to frequently asked questions, construction updates, and information about available services at ezeefiber.com/kent.
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Get ready for the Kent Nerd Party, where downtown Kent transforms into the ultimate haven for nerds!
The Nerd Party is a street-wide event with a cosplay contest, miniature painting contest, Lego museum, LARP games, outdoor vendors, and more.
All nerds are welcome! Whether you love science fiction, fantasy, horror, anime, gaming, or one of the other innumerable geeky pursuits!
📅 Saturday, June 7
⌚ 2 p.m.- 7 p.m.
📍 Page Turner Books (215 1st Ave S.)
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Kent International Festival is back at ShoWare Center next weekend! This event is a celebration of the cultural diversity represented in our city, and it's a great way to come together, celebrate various heritages and build respect, understanding and a sense of inclusivity in our community.
📅 Saturday, May 31
⏰ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
📍 accesso ShoWare Center
It will feature performers, cultural and informational booths and so much more! They are still looking for volunteers, so if you're interested head over to their website to learn more.
Last week, Chief Padilla proudly promoted Detectives L. Dvorak and C. Pribble to the rank of Sergeant during a double ceremony attended by family, friends, and colleagues.
The role of Sergeant is critical, they are the first line of leadership, guiding and mentoring our officers in the field. These promotions reflect the high standards and dedication expected at the Kent Police Department.
Sergeant Dvorak, an 18-year KPD veteran, brings a wealth of experience in investigations and task force work focused on human trafficking.
Sergeant Pribble, with seven years of service, is known for her work in digital forensics and violent crimes, as well as her leadership with community outreach efforts like Shop with a Cop.
Both are outstanding public servants, and we are grateful for their continued commitment to Kent.
Please join me in congratulating Sergeants Dvorak and Pribble!
The Kent Police Department is accepting applications for this year's Teen Police Academy on June 24–26.
This hands-on experience is open to current Kent sophomores, juniors, seniors, and 2025 graduates who want to explore careers in law enforcement or learn more about the specialty units that serve our community.
Participants will dive into topics like K9, SWAT, detectives, narcotics, building searches, and mock scenarios.
📅 Apply by May 29
📧 Questions? Contact Stacy Judd at sjudd@kentwa.gov or 253-856-5883.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see what it’s like behind the badge!
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Have you ever wondered how to start the conversation with your kids about the dangers of drugs/alcohol? Unsure what signs and symptoms to look for if you are concerned about substance use?
On Wednesday, May 28, the Kent Drug Free Coalition and the Kent Police Department is inviting parents and community members to attend this valuable education event focused on youth substance use prevention and mental health awareness.
📅 Wednesday, May 28
⌚ 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
📍 Kent Commons
Topics covered include current trends, signs & symptoms, the important role parents play and how to talk to your kids.
Call before you dig!
Anytime you need to excavate for a home project, state law requires you to notify utility companies to avoid dangerous or costly damages.
Notify utilities of your intent to dig by calling 811 or by making an online request a few days before you plan to break ground. call811.com
DigSafeWA.org is your online resources for digging safely in Washington.
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Want to guarantee you’re represented in future regional transportation plans?
Check your mailbox from now until June for an invitation to complete the Puget Sound Regional Travel Study.
Invited households will receive a gift card for participating! To learn more, visit: survey.psrc.org
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We're hiring! Check out our featured jobs and find great Summer opportunities on our hiring page at jobs.kentwa.gov
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Applications are now being accepted for the city's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Board!
The goal of the board is to increase engagement, integration, and access to city services for all cultural communities in Kent.
You can learn about the city's work in these areas and the Equity Strategic Plan at KentWA.gov/Race-Equity and apply to be on the board here!
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